Gray!!

{I adore gray. a lot. (it's pretty much my favorite color next to yellow) 

 So I thought I should do a blog post about it.  :D}

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Gray is a base color. Like black... brown or navy. It can go with just about every other color and still look lovely!  It's been a favorite of mine because it's not as dramatic as black, nor as earthy as brown and isn't as traditional as navy but can still be dressy & formal or laid back & relaxed. ('course black, brown and navy still have a place in my life...but you understand where I'm going;) hehe)

This color tends to be gloomy for many people but before you read any further, please think of all the color you can throw with it to still feel cheerful and happy!

There are many various shades and tones of gray. Warm or cool. Silvery or gunmetal.  Try to choose ones that complement your skin tone and the colors you pair with it. 

Gray in Clothing

It works for all seasons, just pair it with seasonal colors (or be more daring & unique and pair it with unseasonal colors!)  Typically you might  try mixing it with pastels and light colors in Spring; medium and bright tones in Summer; warm and earthy shades in fall; and deep, dramatic hues in Winter but mix it up according to your own taste and personal style.       

If  certain shades of gray don't complement your skin coloring, try different shades or use small amounts... accent pieces (jewelry, hats, shoes) or patterns with gray mixed in.

Gray can be the base or accent color of your ensemble, just remember to combine it with small or large splashes of color to break up the monotony. 

It's okay to pull several shades of gray into one outfit too but  make sure they blend well together and once again, remember to add splashes of color. 

Gray in Decor

Gray is often used in French country decor (very vintage) 

or can be very cool and elegant when paired with sleek modern lines. 

 and stays traditional when matched with gold accents and dark wood.

  I would suggest adding splashes of color as well but use it as suits your own tastes.

***I ran out of time to find just the right photos to go with this post but found a few images with Google's help to give you some ideas. I'll try to share a few photos that mix grays with more color next time so it won't seem so gloomy for some of you. ;)***

::Decoupage::

I had several composition books and a binder sitting around looking bla and plain so last weekend I spruced them up in my spare time:) 

Decoupaging is so simple but can totally transform so much! 

Here's how to try your hand at it:

Supplies: Elmer's glue | an old craft paint brush | some form of paper {I've used newspaper, wrapping paper, cut-outs from magazines and scrapbook paper. I also want to try using maps. So get creative... there's lots you can use!} | something to decoupage! {notebook, small box, something wooden... there's all sorts of possibilities. My next step is to try it on glass and see how that works}

1) Prepare your space by laying down newsprint:) 

2) Dilute your glue {roughly a tablespoon of water to a 1/4 cup of glue. You don't want it too runny so add a small about of water at a time} and be sure you have your paper or cut-outs prepared (torn, cut, etc.).

3)Brush a coat of glue onto the item you are decoupaging then place your paper on, one piece at a time, brushing another coat of glue on top as you go. If you are working with torn pieces, (as I did on the notebooks below) be sure to layer well and cover all the cracks. Be careful not to apply an excess of glue, you just want a light layer.

4) Brush a final coat of glue over the entire piece (or one side at a time) once you're finished applying paper/pieces.

5) Let dry in a well ventilated place (or in front of a fan) for at least 24 hours.

Tips:

-As you go, rub out wrinkles and bubbles gently. Especially if you are laying on large pieces at once. Work from one edge to the next or from the middle out.

-The decoupage process tends to make paper more transparent so keep that in mind. If you aren't layering torn pieces but want to make sure the color of the notebook doesn't bleed through, consider first decoupaging a layer of white paper (or if you can, a deeper color) before you do your other design.

-Definitely make sure that as you're working, the side that is laying on the newsprint or drying place stays dry and uncoated by wet glue. You don't want to have it all pull off when you pick it up!

-Often times you have to work in sections... doing one side, letting it dry completely, then moving on to the next side.

-Get hands on and use your fingers to apply the glue! It turns out better because you're able to apply pressure to "squeeze" excess glue from under the paper.

Let me know if you have questions!

  

My American Lit binder needed a fresh look:)

Newsprint covered composition book. When I have time I'm going to decorate/personalize it for a gift.

Front of Lab book  {I layered torn pieces of scrapbook paper}

back of Lab book

Yet to be completed, I used torn pieces of wrapping paper on this book.

Anthropologie Inspiration: Autumn Dreams

I found this in my inbox tonight from Anthropologie and it just made me *so* happy! Doesn't everyone want to do this on a random Autumn day?! 

(p.s. notice the detailed crocheted dress paired perfectly with tights to warm it up!!}